3 Reasons Why Quitting is so Hard

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Quitting smoking isn’t easy. Many ex-smokers say quitting was the hardest thing they ever did. So why is it so hard?

Here are a few reasons why:

Nicotine is a hard addiction to breakIf you feel like you’re hooked on smoking, you're probably addicted to nicotine. Nicotine is in all tobacco products. It’s what makes you feel satisfied when you smoke. Nicotine can also make you feel more alert and focused. The more you smoke, the more nicotine you need to feel “normal.” Soon, you don't feel normal without nicotine.

It takes time to break free from a nicotine addiction. And it may take more than one try to quit for good. So don't give up!

Smoking is a big part of your lifeNicotine addiction makes it hard to quit, but quitting is also hard because smoking is a big part of your life. You enjoy holding cigarettes. You enjoy smoking them. You might smoke when you are stressed, bored, or angry. After months or years of lighting up, smoking has become part of your daily routine. You might light up without even thinking about it.

Smoking also goes with other things you do or like, such as drinking coffee, wine, or beer; talking on the phone; driving; and being with other smokers.

Triggers are all around youYou might even feel uncomfortable not smoking at times or in places where you usually have a cigarette. These times and places are called "triggers." That's because they trigger, or turn on, your cravings for cigarettes.

Breaking these patterns is the hardest part of quitting for some smokers. Learn more about your triggers and tips to live without smoking.

Quitting smoking may take several tries. But you learn something each time you try. Remember that millions of people have quit smoking for good. You can be one of them!